Large-scale printed strain sensors based on carbon ink incorporated into an intermittent conductive silver pattern

Abstract

In this study, we demonstrate a new concept of large-scale strain sensors whose construction is based on a hybrid structure of a conductive intermittent pattern with embedded sensing elements made of a functional resistive ink. Because the electrical resistance of the intermittent conductive pattern (made of silver) was much lower than that of the resistance of sensing elements made of carbon-based inks, the sensitivity of the entire sensor depends almost selectively on the properties of the sensing elements, which is a key feature of the demonstrated sensor. The developed large-scale strain sensors were tested during static and dynamic bending deformations, demonstrating good strain sensitivity (gauge factor: 13.26) and no hysteresis within the investigated strain range. This sensor construction may be especially suitable for manufacturing sensors longer than those demonstrated herein (20 cm) and with a desirable electrical resistance.